History of the Filipino Canadian Chamber of Commerce – Greater Vancouver (FCCC-GV)
The Filipino Canadian Chamber of Commerce – Greater Vancouver (FCCC-GV) was born out of a vision to empower and unite Filipino-Canadian entrepreneurs, professionals, and businesses in the Greater Vancouver Area. Its journey began with a spark of inspiration at the Federation of Filipino-American Chambers of Commerce (FPACC) and Philippine Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PCCI) Bi-National Conference in Seattle, Washington, USA, in August 2022. During the concluding ceremony, FPACC President Marie Cunning recognized the presence of a representative from the soon-to-be-established Vancouver Chamber of Commerce. This announcement caught the attention of our Founding President, Carlo Mendoza, who was the sole representative from Canada at the event. Recognizing the need for a dedicated chamber of commerce to serve the growing Filipino-Canadian community in Greater Vancouver, the seed of FCCC-GV was planted.
Despite initial challenges, the Founding President remained steadfast in pursuing this vision. Shortly after the conference, the first attempt to gather like-minded individuals took place, but only four out of fifteen invitees attended, including the Founding President’s daughter, Winwin, Joey Roco and Ellis Julian. Undeterred, a second meeting was called, and again, only four out of twenty invitees attended, with Winwin once again among them. While the turnout was discouraging, the Founding President refused to lose hope, believing that the right time would come.
That moment arrived on October 6, 2024, when a third meeting was held in Surrey to reach a broader audience. This time, five out of fifty invitees attended, marking a turning point in the journey. Rhona Doria, Joel Castro, Vickie Buechler, and Sherwyn Aller joined Carlo Mendoza in leading the discussion. This meeting was declared the official Kickoff Meeting of FCCC-GV, laying the foundation for what would become a thriving organization.
The momentum continued to build during the First Roadshow Meeting on November 30, 2024, where over twenty individuals attended, including a representative from the local news media network Omni Television—a significant milestone that demonstrated the growing interest and support for the chamber. During this meeting, the Founding President presented the FCCC-GV’s Vision, Mission, and Values Statement, outlining the organization’s commitment to fostering economic growth, promoting collaboration, and celebrating the unique contributions of Filipino-Canadians in the Greater Vancouver Area.
Questions and challenges were raised, particularly regarding the distinction between a chamber of commerce and a trade council. The Founding President eloquently explained the differences, emphasizing that while a trade council focuses on trade relations and policy advocacy, a chamber of commerce is dedicated to supporting local businesses, fostering networking opportunities, and driving community development. This clarification resonated with the attendees, who recognized the unique role FCCC-GV could play in the region.
In a pivotal moment, one of the attendees moved for the election of officers, a motion that was met with unanimous agreement. Four of the five individuals who had attended the Kickoff Meeting were nominated to form the Executive Leadership Team, and with their acceptance, the FCCC-GV was officially formed. November 30, 2024, was declared the official founding date of the chamber—a day that will forever be remembered as the beginning of a new era for Filipino-Canadian businesses in Greater Vancouver.
Since its inception, FCCC-GV has remained true to its mission of empowering its members, fostering economic growth, and building bridges between the Filipino-Canadian community and the broader business landscape. The chamber continues to grow, driven by the dedication of its members, the leadership of its officers, and the unwavering vision of its Founding President.
Today, FCCC-GV stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, collaboration, and community. It is a beacon of hope and opportunity for Filipino-Canadian entrepreneurs and professionals, and a proud symbol of the vibrant contributions of the Filipino community to the economic and cultural fabric of Greater Vancouver.
“From a spark of inspiration to a thriving community—FCCC-GV is where dreams take flight and business flourish.”
Who We Are
FCCC-GV is a business organization dedicated to empowering Filipino-Canadian entrepreneurs, professionals, and investors in Greater Vancouver. Through networking, advocacy, and business development programs, we strive to create a thriving ecosystem for businesses to flourish.
Our Mission
To provide resources, opportunities, and a platform that supports business growth, professional development, advocacy, and cultural integration for Filipino-Canadians, and to actively engage with government and stakeholders to influence policies that impact our community.
Our Vision
To become the leading catalyst for empowerment and collaboration, uniting Filipino business and professionals to build a sustainable and prosperous ecosystem in Greater Vancouver, and to be recognized as a trusted voice advocating for the interest of our community at all levels of government.
Our Values
Collaborative Community
We believe in the power of collaboration and mutual support, fostering a strong sense of community among Filipino business and professionals in Greater Vancouver.
Professional Excellence
We are committed to promoting excellence and continuous learning among Filipino professionals, providing opportunities for skill development, career advancement, and knowledge sharing.
Cultural Enrichment
We celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Filipino community, promoting cultural exchange and understanding while contributing to the multicultural fabric of Greater Vancouver area.
Inclusivity
We embrace diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that all members, whether businesses or professionals, are valued and have equal opportunities to participate and succeed.
Advocacy for Empowerment
We advocate for policies and initiatives that empower Filipino businesses and professionals, championing their interests and contributing to the economic and social well-being of the community.
Sustainable Growth
We prioritize sustainable growth and development, balancing economic prosperity with environmental stewardship and social responsibility for the benefit of current and future generations.